Mercedes has announced a series of improvements for their popular Sprinter van.

First and foremost, the model will become the world's first van with an optional seven-speed automatic transmission. It's the familiar 7G-Tronic unit and promises to deliver "silky smooth gear changes" even at temperatures as low as -30°C (-22°F).

To reduce operating costs, the BlueEFFICIENCY package includes an engine start/stop system, low rolling-resistance tires and an ECO steering system. Thanks to these changes, the typical four-cylinder diesel Sprinter van can have a fuel consumption rating as low as 7.4l/100 km. The package can also be combined with a high-ratio rear axle which can lower that figure to 7.0l/100km.

Lastly, there's an adaptive Electronic Stability Program with two new functions: Brake Disk Wipe and Electronic Brake Prefill. The first function removes water from the brake discs, while the latter gently activates the brakes when the driver quickly removes their foot from the accelerator.

Due to its life-saving role, an ambulance has to be fast enough to arrive as soon as possible to the place of an accident or a medical situation, with the same applying for the drive back to a hospital.

Exactly how fast depends on many factors including the type of vehicle.

While we don't have all the details in our hands yet, given the Brabus brand's previous achievements in the tuning industry, something tells us that its new Special Project Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Ambulance for the desert won’t disappoint when it comes to speed.

Brabus says the Sprinter Ambulance sports a specially tuned Mercedes-Benz 5.5-liter V8 engine with power being delivered to all four wheels.

The Mercedes-Benz specialist added that the ambulance is currently under development with more information to be announced at a later date.